Melville, NY—On August 21, 2017, the moon will pass between the sun and Earth. It will fully block the sun from view for more than two minutes to a large portion of the country. The total solar eclipse will be the first one seen across the entire country in 99 years. The last one viewed in the U.S. occurred in 1979. To serve as a resource for photographers documenting the once-in-a-lifetime event, Canon USA launched the Canon Eclipse blog. The blog is called “A Total Guide to Totality.” It also announced various camera/lens solar eclipse kits.
The blog is located at usa.canon.com/eclipse. It is a resource for anyone looking to capture what is likely to be the most photographed total solar eclipse. The blog is coauthored by Canon Explorer of Light Ken Sklute and photographer Dave Henry. It will feature ongoing posts with guidelines, images and videos that teach photographers of all skill levels how to capture the eclipse. Tips include how to help protect your eyes as well as camera lenses and sensors.
In addition to the blog, consumers can also learn and practice their photography skills through specialized Canon Live Learning workshops at Canon facilities around the country.
“Prepping for an opportunity to capture a rare lifetime moment like the total solar eclipse takes significant planning, practicing and fine-tuning of photography techniques,” said Ken Sklute, professional photographer and Canon Explorer of Light. “With enough practice and the right equipment, it is possible for anyone to capture this magnificent moment.”
Furthermore, Canon announced six Eclipse kits that are now available for sale. The specially created kits package select Canon cameras and lenses with a Hoya Pro ND100000 67mm filter and a 58–67mm stepping ring to help protect the camera’s sensor as well as photographers’ eyes when looking through the viewfinder. The PowerShot SX60 HS kit does not include a stepping ring. The Eclipse kits will be available exclusively through the Canon Online store.
“We believe there are no limits to beautiful imagery. And we do everything possible so that our customers have the highest quality equipment, customer care, and access to the education they need in order to create beautiful images,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon USA, Inc. “Whether it’s a shared national experience such as the total solar eclipse or more personal milestones, Canon helps photographers capture the events that are more than just a moment.”
Canon Total Solar Eclipse Kits
In addition to including a Hoya Pro ND100000 67mm filter and a 58–67mm stepping ring, Canon’s Solar Eclipse kits are offered in the following configurations and pricing.
EF 70–300mm IS II USM Solar Eclipse Kit
This kit features the Canon EF 70–300mm IS II USM lens for $649.99.
Double Lens Solar Eclipse Kit
Bundled here is a Canon EF 70–300mm IS II USM with an EF-S 10–18mm IS STM lens for $949.99.
EOS 80D Double Lens Solar Eclipse Kit
This kit includes the EOS 80D body kit, the Canon EF 70–300mm IS II USM and EF-S 10–18mm IS STM lenses and a gadget bag. $2,199.
EOS Rebel T7i Double Lens Solar Eclipse Kit
Bundled are the EOS Rebel T7i/18–55mm IS STM lens kit, an EF-S 55–250mm IS STM lens and a gadget bag. $1,349.
EOS Rebel T6 Double Lens Solar Eclipse Kit
This package includes the Canon EOS Rebel T6 18–55mm IS lens kit along with the Canon EF 75–300mm lens and a gadget bag. $899.99.
PowerShot SX60 HS Solar Eclipse Kit
This kit combines a point-and-shoot PowerShot SX60 HS and the FA-DC67 Canon filter adapter. $649.99. usa.canon.com/eclipse.
